NIGERIA AT 65: David Mark Says Credible Leadership Is Crucial For Progress.

David Mark.

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th year of independence, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former Senate President, Senator David Mark, has emphasised the urgent need for credible leadership to address the country's present difficulties.

Reflecting on the nation’s journey since independence, Mark described Nigeria as a country that has demonstrated resilience despite facing numerous serious challenges.

He recognised that while the country has endured many difficulties, Nigerians must continue to believe in their collective capacity to rebuild and reposition the nation for future prosperity.

In a goodwill message to mark the 65th Independence Anniversary, Mark encouraged citizens to find strength in historical experiences and to face current realities with unity and courage.

He remarked that the world's most advanced nations were shaped through enduring severe hardship.

On the issue of national security, he stressed the need for immediate investment in intelligence gathering, modern technological tools, and improved welfare for security officers, while also confronting the root causes of violence, such as poverty, injustice, and exclusion.

“Sixty-five years ago, we lifted the flag of freedom and declared ourselves a sovereign people. That moment was not just the end of colonial rule; it was the beginning of our responsibility to build a nation worthy of our hopes. Today, we look back with mixed emotions and gratitude for how far we have come, but are concerned over the storms that still threaten our future,” he said.

In a statement released by his Media Adviser, Paul Mumeh, Mark pointed out that Nigeria is at a critical turning point, burdened by issues such as insecurity, joblessness, inflation, food shortages, and the decline of industrial activity.

“Our communities are restless under the grip of insecurity. Our youth are losing hope due to unemployment. Inflation has eroded the dignity of honest earnings, while factories close and businesses relocate, leaving despair in their wake. Families struggle daily to put food on the table. These are harsh truths we cannot deny,” he added.

Speaking on the economic situation, Mark advocated for the revival of domestic industries, greater support for small and medium-scale businesses, and the creation of a favourable environment for both local and foreign investment.

He also recommended that young people be empowered with practical skills in areas such as technology, agriculture, innovation, and the creative sector, emphasising that efforts should go beyond mere symbolic gestures.

On the matter of food security, he called for renewed investment in the agricultural sector, the establishment of efficient storage systems, and fair distribution channels to ensure that Nigerian produce first meets the needs of Nigerian citizens.

Above all, he underlined the need for a renewed commitment to unity and sacrifice — the same values that brought about Nigeria’s independence in 1960.

“No nation is ever too broken to be rebuilt when her people are determined. At 65, our burdens are real, but so is our resilience. Our hope must outweigh our despair, and our strength must carry us forward. Let us recover faith in our nation, work hand in hand, and rebuild the promise of Nigeria,” Mark said.

He also encouraged Nigerians to consider the ADC as a reliable political platform that upholds democratic principles, assuring that the party, if entrusted with leadership, would restore hope and rebuild the country.

Mark ended his message by urging Nigerians to learn from past experiences in making decisions during the 2027 general elections, insisting that only credible and visionary leadership can rescue the nation from its current state.